B.C. municipal leaders vote for decriminalization of pot

The decriminalization of marijuana generated heated debate at this week's Union of B.C. Municipalities annual meeting in Victoria. (CBC)

Delegates at the Union of B.C. Municipalities have voted in favour of a resolution calling for the decriminalization and taxation of marijuana.

The resolution will not change any laws, but supporters say it will help put pressure on higher levels of government for changes to existing laws.

The controversial motion split those at the convention; with many delegates expressing concern that legalized marijuana would be more harmful, and others arguing current laws enable organized crime to make massive profits.

The marijuana resolution is one of more than 200 due to be considered by the estimated 1,500 delegates attending this year's convention.

The convention opened Monday with two days of study sessions, forums and tours. On Wednesday morning, the annual general meeting opened with a keynote address by CBC Radio host Anna Maria Tremonti.

On Thursday, NDP Leader Adrian Dix will address the delegates followed by Premier Christy Clark, who will give the closing address on Friday.